Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Thursday, 4 Dec 1997

Vol. 484 No. 2

Written Answers. - Commission on Further Funding of Education.

Richard Bruton

Ceist:

160 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Education and Science whether the Commission on the Future Funding of Education chaired by a person (details supplied) has completed its work; the number of meetings which it has held; and when he will receive the report in this regard. [21802/97]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. Martin)

The technical working group on the funding of second level schools was established in November 1996 to recommend a framework for the recurrent funding, excluding teachers' salaries, of second level schools.

The technical working group comprises a number of technical experts and its report, which will be published, will be submitted to a steering group, the members of which have been nominated by relevant second level interests. This steering group, having considered the report, will then submit final recommendations to me. These recommendations will be published.

To date, the technical working group has met on eleven occasions. In addition, members of the group have met separately with interested parties, officials from my Department and experts in the field of formula funding.

The group's work on some aspects of the funding system is nearing completion. However, work on other aspects of this complex area is ongoing and will continue for some time.